A helicopter in a convoy transporting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to the Qiz-Qalasi Dam in East Azerbaijan province reportedly crashed on Sunday.
Details of the crash and information about other passengers were unclear at the time of reporting, but rescuers were attempting to reach the crash site, according to state television.
The country’s finance minister, Amir Abdollahian, was also reportedly in the helicopter with the president. Reports indicated that two of the three helicopters in the convoy safely reached their destination.
Iran operates a variety of helicopters but faces challenges in obtaining parts due to international sanctions. Much of Iran’s military air fleet dates back to before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The 63-year-old Raisi is a hard-line former head of Iran’s judiciary and is considered a disciple of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Some analysts believe he could succeed the 85-year-old Khamenei upon his death or resignation.
More details to follow…